THE FIRST CROPS of the year are in the ground. One will be cut near the end of this month, so it won’t be long. If the weather cooperates, asparagus plants will poke their heads up by mid February. Cutting will begin later and, with fair weather, one will be able to pickle a few spears near the end of the month. The harvest of Jerusalem artichokes begins in November; however, like potatoes, an incubation period concentrates the sugars, adding to the quality. By February, perfection can be achieved. If you are ready to begin, try your hand with these two main ingredients. I have selected the first recipe because few of us or the farmers we know grow a lot of garlic, yet garlic is readily available through wholesalers, food brokers and stores year-round.